Technical Architect, Perficient
Q: Tell us about yourself
A: I’m a technical architect at Perficient, where I specialize in designing and implementing Salesforce solutions that help businesses scale and succeed. I’m passionate about mentoring others and guiding team members in their career growth. I also play an active role in organizing events for Perficient’s Fargo office. One thing I pride myself on is bringing a creative approach to problem-solving. And I believe in turning challenges into opportunities. Away from the office, I love family time with my two-year-old son and the challenge of a good puzzle.
Q: What inspired you to get involved in your community at a young age?
A: My mom was deeply involved in our local community; she ran a clothing closet, and I grew up helping her sort donations and hand out clothes at events. Those early experiences taught me that small acts add up to real support for people who need it. When I left for college and later moved across the country, I drifted away from that volunteering and noticed how much I missed feeling connected. Volunteering became my way to build that bond with my community. Whether I’m organizing a donation drive or mentoring someone for an afternoon, giving back reminds me that community is something you keep alive by doing, not just thinking about.
Q: Who has been the most influential mentor in your life, and why?
A: My first job out of college was as a software developer at a defense company, and Debbie, my boss, was one of only two women on a team of twenty. She pushed me to take on the toughest parts of our projects and was always a second set of eyes or ears, patiently explaining concepts until I felt confident. Seeing a woman lead the team showed me that leadership looked like someone I could be, which gave me real confidence to aim for those roles myself. She also recognized the specific challenges I faced as a young woman in a male-dominated field and taught me practical strategies to help others set aside bias and take my contributions seriously. She coached me on when and how to escalate issues so they would be heard and resolved, and that guidance shaped not just my technical skills but how I show up professionally.
Q: What does success look like to you right now?
A: Success to me looks like growing in confidence and finding steady balance in the day-to-day. Growing in confidence has given me permission to speak up in rooms where I used to stay quiet and to share my ideas more freely. I trust my judgment more, which saves time and worry, and I rely on the skills I’ve developed over the years to show up as the best version of myself. I also prioritize balance. Work and home life can both get very busy, and lately I’ve been struggling to find time just for myself, so carving out small pockets to decompress has become essential. Maintaining that balance supports my mental health and directly improves how I perform both at work and at home.
Q: What community issue do you feel deserves more attention?
A: I don’t think we talk enough about how essential our local libraries are. They’re more than books: they offer games, movies, puzzles, and social programs that bring neighbors together to learn new skills and meet one another. Libraries provide crucial access to computers, the internet, and printers for people who otherwise couldn’t get online, and their children’s programs foster curiosity while giving kids a safe place to play and grow. I joined a monthly social program there and met people I never would have crossed paths with otherwise. My son has developed a love of reading and knows the library is part of our normal weekend routine. Investing in libraries means investing in community connection, digital equity, and lifelong learning for people of every age.
Q: Why is our local United Way important to you?
A: Our local United Way of Cass-Clay matters to me because it helps children arrive at school ready to learn. By providing classroom supplies, backpacks, and basic essentials, the program reduces barriers that can make school feel intimidating and helps kids connect more easily with their peers. I care about education, so supporting efforts that level the playing field and give every child a fair shot feels practical and deeply meaningful. When we invest in early success, we’re investing in stronger schools and a healthier community for everyone.
Q: What is a hope you have for our community?
A: I hope our community is one that shows up for each other. One where we notice when someone’s hurting and lend a hand, and where we celebrate together when good things happen. Right now, there’s a lot of division, but I believe we’re stronger when we build bridges, listen, and make space so everyone feels welcome. That kind of everyday kindness and mutual support creates safer, healthier neighborhoods where people can thrive.
